Install a vinyl wall covering on a backsplash

Photo 1: Cut out windows with scissors

Make “relief cuts” with a sharp scissors until the paper lies flat
against the wall. Then use a razor to make the final cuts by following
the contours of the molding.

Photo 2: Glue corners tight

Vinyl won’t stick to itself. To keep corner seams secure, overlap the
corner by 1/2 in. and brush the overlapped section with vinyl-to-vinyl
adhesive before pressing the next piece into place.

Photo 3: A sharp blade is critical for trimming

Vinyl wallpaper dulls razor blades quickly, so each blade is good
for only one or two cuts. Wallpaper razor knives (about $6) give you
more control than utility knives.

Wallpaper as a durable kitchen backsplash? You
bet. We bought “splash-proof” vinyl wallpaper
(in the “Wallis” pattern) from
grahambrown.com, which offers a variety of wallpapers
designed for kitchens and baths. Splash-proof wallpaper
resists moisture and humidity, and stands up to scrubbing.

Tough paper is easy to hang
We're not going to show you everything you need to know
to hang wallpaper (search above for “hanging wallpaper”). Instead, we're going to
show you techniques that are unique to hanging vinyl.

The great news is that vinyl wallpaper goes up easier
than other wallpapers because it's not as flimsy. Most vinyl
wallpapers require a premixed vinyl paste (read the manufacturer's
instructions). We used a heavy-duty clay-based
paste available at any wallpaper store. Before starting,
make sure your wall is primed with a primer/sealer for
vinyl wallpapers (also available at wallpaper stores).

Set a plumb line with a level to start your first sheet. On
small pieces, you can use a paintbrush to apply the paste
to the back of the wallpaper. “Book” each piece for five
minutes before hanging it (see our online story for more on
this technique). Booking allows the paper to relax and
return to its original width before it goes on the wall.

Photos 1 - 3 offer pro tips for making the job go smoothly.

Homeowner comment:
“We used tough-as-nails high-end wallpaper. Since
we used so little, it was cheap and went up really fast.
It definitely pulls the whole room together.”
Kama Johnson